wedding weekend in Geyserville

Weddings have become quite a production these days. My own took months of planning, my sister spent a year planning hers, entire television shows have been devoted to the extravagance that a wedding can become. But they are also so special, especially when they involve getting large families together in a single space, and especially when the bride and groom are so clearly meant for each other. This is how my cousin's wedding was last weekend. A beautiful, relaxed celebration of two people. It felt like a celebration of a marriage, not just a wedding. And if anything didn't go as planned last Saturday, you would never know it by looking at the bride. She was peaceful, composed, and joyful the entire time. Oh, and of course, beautiful, because if anything is beautiful, it is a bride glowing with the obvious love and joy she feels for her groom.

~ the bride & groom ~

Since I spoke my own vows to Ryan a little more than three years ago, I can no longer watch a vow ceremony without a little lump in my throat and maybe a few misty tears. Watching the bride walk down the aisle, never fails to stir up those emotions I felt as I walked to meet my own groom. I never felt that way before I was married myself. I suppose, like most things in life, you don't truly "get it" until you've been there yourself.

My only disappointment of the weekend was that I didn't take any pictures. The location was just gorgeous and had me wishing for a camera, but Ryan and I were plenty busy keeping our sweet girlies under control. Mia decided the most appropriate time for an outburst was during the moment of silence for those who weren't able to attend, but what can you do? I grabbed a pacifier as quickly as I could and "plugged" her up.

~ i love this picture of my grandma & Mia ~

My mom took plenty of pictures, though, which I've stolen and now posted. Although, giving her proper credit negates the "stealing," I think. She took plenty of pictures of my girls and the man and me, which makes me sort of happy, considering we were all dressed with our hair combed and whatnot, and also because it helps prove that I was actually there.

The best part of family weddings, in my opinion? Sunday morning brunch. It's become a little tradition in our family. My mom had a big brunch the morning after my wedding, and also after Kristina's wedding this past May, so my cousin's family took the cue and also hosted brunch. And while we may not all be looking (or feeling) our best after a late night out, it feels like the best opportunity for visiting with family and getting just a little more time together before we must disperse again. And speaking of Kristina's wedding, I never got around to posting about it, but I will, I promise, because it was gorgeous and perfect and needs to be documented. Maybe by your six month anniversary, Kristina?